Impressionism and Key Artists
Listen carefully to the following passage:
Today in our art history lecture, we will explore the elements of Impressionism, a revolutionary art movement that began in the late 19th century. Key to this style is the emphasis on light effects and movement over traditional forms and detail. Artists like Claude Monet, Edgar Degas, and Pierre-Auguste Renoir are central figures in this genre. Monet’s series of paintings featuring haystacks at different times of day illustrate how light can alter perception. Likewise, Degas often captured dancers in motion, showcasing a unique perspective on their graceful movements. Renoir is known for his vibrant depictions of social gatherings, particularly emphasizing the interplay of light and shadow on human figures. Impressionism represented a departure from realism, breaking conventions and allowing for personal interpretation of subjects.
Note: This question has been adapted from its original format to accommodate a reading-based version. In the official TOEFL exam, speaking and listening sections require verbal responses and audio prompts, which are not represented here. Please note that this adaptation may not fully reflect the nature or difficulty of the official exam. The audio feature for these sections will be available soon.
Select all that apply: